J. Ernst Ruckdaschel 1821-1900

RUCKDASCHEL, HASCH, SEIFERT, THOMA, DICKMANN, KLUSS

Posted By: SGF (email)
Date: 8/7/2002 at 03:23:14

Ernst Ruckaschel, one of the oldest and most respected of the German settlers in this region, was gathered to his ancestors a week ago Saturday, at the ripe age of 79 years. In reference to his life, we quote the following from the Postville "Volksblatt" (People's Paper):
Ernst Ruckdaschel was born on April 11, 1821 in Weissenstadt in Bavaria at the foot of the Fichtel Mts. In his youth he learned the locksmith's trade and travelled then as a journeyman through various regions of Germany. In 1845 he married Katharine, nee Hasch. This was a happy and contented union, blessed by seven children: Johann R., of Staplehurst, Nebraska; next, the now deceased Mrs. Seifert, wife of Pastor Seifert; and Dorothea, the wife of John Thoma, who were all born in Germany. At sea, during the crossing to America, the next son, Ludwig Christian, was born. The following were born in America: John R., Grand Meadow; Mrs. Anna Dickmann, Garnavillo; and Margaretha Kluss. He settled first in Guttenberg; then he rented an 80-acre farm in Read Township, which he worked industriously with his children. Later he bought 280 acres of land in Grand Meadow, and following that 300 acres. He and his family worked tirelessly to attain a high level of prosperity. At the beginning of the 90's, he moved to Postville where he bought himself a handsome house, and, together with his wife, enjoyed a well-earned retirement. He is survived by his aged widow, six children, 38 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. With Ernst Ruckdaschel there passed on another of those old German pioneers who by the strict upbringing of their children gave to the German-American community a number of members who have remained German in their life-style and customs and who enjoy a wide respect. With Ernst there were no secrets. "Down with the wine, if it is clear; Out with the word, if it is true!" That was his character, and that is how he raised his family. The burial took place on Monday afternoon from the house of the mourners. In the home and at church, Pastor Bockelmann spoke; at the cemetery, Pastor Emeritus Gass, Pastor Seifert, and Pastor Bockelmann spoke.

- source: old typed manuscript, crossed over & with handwritten notes, from the personal papers of his g-grandson, Elrie Ruckdaschel

Last Will & Testament
 

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